Timeline of Cook Islands

Chronology

6 events spanning the history of Cook Islands. BCE/CE dating.

1. 1596

   Spaniard Alvaro de Mendana is the first European to sight the islands.

   Spaniard Alvaro de Mendana is the first European to sight the islands.

2. 1773

   Captain James Cook explores the islands and names them the Hervey Islands.

   Captain James Cook explores the islands and names them the Hervey Islands. Fifty years later they are renamed in his honor.

3. 1888

   Cook Islands are proclaimed a British protectorate.

   Cook Islands are proclaimed a British protectorate and a single federal parliament is established.

4. 1901

   Islands are annexed to New Zealand.

   Islands are annexed to New Zealand.

5. 1965

   Islands become a self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand.

   Islands become a self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand. Albert Henry, leader of the Cook Islands Party, is elected as the territory’s first prime minister.

6. 2005

   Four cyclones in as many weeks hit the territory, causing widespread damage.

   Four cyclones in as many weeks hit the territory, causing widespread damage.